ANNUAL REPORT to the COMMISSIONER

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2 Florida Department of Education ANNUAL REPORT to the COMMISSIONER Prepared by the OFFICE OF STUDENT FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE Office of Student Financial Assistance (OSFA) 325 West Gaines Street, Suite 1314 Tallahassee, Florida State Scholarship & Grant Programs Federal Programs December 2013

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4 ` CONTENTS Florida Department of Education Office of Student Financial Assistance Executive Summary State Programs Funding Details State Programs Appropriations and Award Amounts v 1 2 State Scholarships and Grants Need-Based Programs Florida Student Assistance Grant Programs (Public, Private, Postsecondary and Public Career Education) First Generation Matching Grant Program.. Florida Work Experience Program. Rosewood Family Scholarship Program José Martí Scholarship Challenge Grant Fund. Mary McLeod Bethune Scholarship Program Florida Education Fund. Florida Prepaid College Foundation Merit-Based Programs Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program. (Florida Academic Scholars, [Academic Top Scholars], Florida Medallion Scholars, Florida Gold Seal Vocational Scholars) 25 Special Interest Programs - State William L. Boyd, IV, Florida Resident Access Grant Access to Better Learning and Education Grant.. Scholarships for Children and Spouses of Deceased or Disabled Veterans..... Minority Teacher Education Scholarship Program.. Nursing Programs... Private Colleges and Universities... Road-to-Independence Program (Administered by the Florida Dept. of Children and Families) Federal Programs Federal Family Education Loan Program.. Loan Maintenance, Aversion and Forgiveness Claims, Recovery and Call Center. Program Policy and Institutional Review Customer Accounting Support. Information Dissemination Outreach Team... Information and Training... Special Interest Programs Federal College Access Challenge Grant (federal funds expended in FSAG).. John R. Justice Student Loan Repayment Program iii

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6 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Florida Department of Education, Office of Student Financial Assistance (OSFA) presents the Annual Report to the Commissioner, which provides information about state scholarship and grant programs funded by the Florida Legislature and federal programs funded by the U.S. Department of Education. OSFA administers state and federally funded programs that increase access to postsecondary education for Florida s students and initiates outreach activities to promote program awareness. State scholarship and grant programs provide funds to students who may not otherwise be able to afford a college education, thus providing students with the opportunity to pursue careers in technical and academic fields of their choice. The 2012 legislative session initiated additions and revisions to state programs for the academic year. Highlights included: Limited awards to no more than two terms in any fiscal year for Bright Futures awardees enrolled in the University of Florida Innovation Academy spring/summer pilot program. Decreased the time from three years to two years from high school graduation to receive an initial Bright Futures award. Clarified that the Florida Department of Education reviews home-education community service hours for Florida Medallion and Gold Seal Vocational scholars. Clarified that Bright Futures initial and renewal recipients are required to file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Limited Gold Seal Vocational Scholars awards beginning with the high school graduation class. Amended matching programs (José Martí and Mary McLeod Bethune) to require a 1:1 funding match. Required Florida Resident Access Grant and Access to Better Learning and Education Grant applicants to submit a complete, error-free FAFSA before disbursement. During the academic year, OSFA: Administered 23 scholarship and grant programs. Processed over 139,334 initial student applications. Funded over 290,930 new and returning students with state, federal, and private matching funds of approximately $569,487,344 to defray the cost of postsecondary education. Established additional information dissemination and default prevention activities in lieu of guaranteeing new Federal Family Education Loan Program per the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act. Should you have any questions or need additional program information, please call our toll-free customer assistance line at , visit our website at or write: Levis Hughes, Chief Office of Student Financial Assistance Florida Department of Education 325 West Gaines Street, Suite 1314 Tallahassee, Florida v

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8 Need-Based Programs PROGRAM TITLE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION OFFICE OF STUDENT FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE STATE PROGRAMS FUNDING DETAILS Students Receiving Awards Funds Disbursed Average Award Amounts % Funds Disbursed at Institutions Public Private Other* Florida Student Assistance Grant Programs (FSAG) Total** 121,458 $135,605,053 Public Student Assistance Grant 92,590 $105,059,923 $1, % 0% 0% Public Career Education 3,822 $2,262,699 $ % 0% 0% Private Student Assistance Grant 14,360 $16,890,301 $1,176 0% 100% 0% Postsecondary Student Assistance Grant 10,686 $11,392,130 $1,066 0% 100% 0% Florida Work Experience Program (FWEP) 683 $1,350,611 $1,977 88% 12% 0% Rosewood Family Scholarship Program (RFS) 20 $64,222 $3, % 0% 0% José Martí Scholarship Challenge Grant Fund (JM)*** 39 $75,667 $1,940 87% 13% 0% Mary McLeod Bethune Scholarship Program (MMB)*** 138 $321,000 $2,326 17% 83% 0% Florida Education Fund * N/A $2,000,000 N/A N/A N/A 100% Florida Prepaid College Foundation*** N/A $6,702,145 N/A N/A N/A 100% First Generation Matching Grant Program (FGMG)*** 9,211 $10,602,752 $1, % 0% 0% Merit-Based Programs Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Programs Total 162,980 $312,150,590 $1,915 89% 11% 0% Florida Academic Scholars Award (FAS) 40,613 $104,659,203 $2,577 89% 11% 0% o Academic Top Scholars Award (ATS) 240 $286,423 $1,193 86% 14% 0% Florida Medallion Scholars Award (FMS) 120,139 $204,667,694 $1,704 89% 11% 0% Florida Gold Seal Vocational Scholars Award (GSV) 2,228 $2,537,270 $1,139 87% 13% 0% Special Interest Programs William L. Boyd, IV, Florida Resident Access Grant (FRAG) 42, 895 $75,147,815 $1,752 0% 100% 0% Access to Better Learning and Education Grant (ABLE) 4, 021 $2,294,693 $571 0% 100% 0% Scholarships for Children & Spouses of Deceased or Disabled Veterans (CSDDV) 764 $2,887,660 $3,780 85% 15% 0% Florida Fund for Minority Teachers (FFMT) 278 $810,000 $2,914 69% 31% 0% Nursing Student Loan Forgiveness Program 193 $380,742 $1,973 N/A N/A N/A Road-to-Independence Program (RTI) 3,016 $28,177,283 $9,343 N/A N/A N/A Federal Program John R. Justice Student Loan Repayment Program 71 $96,105 $1,545 N/A N/A N/A Totals: 345,767 $578,666,338 *Includes funds disbursed by statutory authorization to secondary and postsecondary students in Florida. **FSAG expenditures include federal College Access Challenge Grant (CACG) funds. ***Requires matching funds; see program pages for specifics. 1

9 FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION OFFICE OF STUDENT FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE STATE PROGRAMS APPROPRIATIONS AND AWARD AMOUNTS PROGRAM TITLE Annual Appropriations Annual Award Amounts Need-Based Programs Florida Student Assistance Grant Programs (FSAG) Total $133,596,977 Public Student Assistance Grant (Full-time/Part-time) $ 102,964,587 $2,610 max - $200 min Public Career Education (Full-time/Part-time) $2,248,139 $2,610 max - $200 min Private Student Assistance Grant (Full-time only) $16,578,164 $2,610 max - $200 min Postsecondary Student Assistance Grant (Full-time only) $11,806,087 $2,610 max - $200 min Florida Work Experience Program (FWEP) $1,569,922 Determined by financial need Rosewood Family Scholarship Program (RFS) $60,000 Tuition & Registration Fees, $4,000 max José Martí Scholarship Challenge Grant Fund (JM) $100,000 $2,000 Mary McLeod Bethune Scholarship Program (MMB) $321,000 $3,000 Florida Education Fund $3,000,000 Determined by Fund Florida Prepaid College Foundation $7,000,000 Determined by Foundation Duplex hardcopy numbers agree with report hardcopy numbers (no relevant numbers). $5,308,663 First Generation Matching Grant Program (FGMG) State Universities $3,981,497 Florida Colleges $1,327,166 Determined by Financial Need up to cost of attendance Merit-Based Programs Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Programs Total Per Semester Credit Hour $309,413,826 (or the equivalent in quarter or clock hours) Florida Academic Scholars Award (FAS) 4-year - $103 2-year - $63 Florida College Baccalaureate - $71 Career/Technical Center - $52 o Academic Top Scholars Award (ATS) $44 per credit hour Florida Medallion Scholars Award (FMS) 4-year - $77 2-year - $48 Florida College Associate - $63 Florida College Baccalaureate - $53 Career/Technical Center - $39 Florida Gold Seal Vocational Scholars Award (GSV) Career Certificate - $39 Applied Technology Diploma - $39 Technical Degree Education - $48 Special Interest Programs William L. Boyd, IV, Florida Resident Access Grant (FRAG) $2,500 $2,071 at schools eligible > $89,664,961 Access to Better Learning and Education Grant (ABLE) $3,239,567 $1,161 Scholarships for Children & Spouses of Deceased or Disabled Veterans (CSDDV) $2,895,907 Tuition and Fees* Florida Fund for Minority Teachers (FFMT) $885,468 Up to $4,000 max Nursing Student Loan Forgiveness Program $929,006 Up to $4,000 Road-to-Independence Program (RTI)** N/A N/A Federal Programs College Access Challenge Grant (Federal)** $8,049,190 Included in the FSAG awards John R. Justice Student Loan Repayment Program $244,351 *Registration fees. **Funds appropriated from the Florida Department of Children and Families, with expenditures reported to the Florida Department of Education at end of year. 2

10 State Scholarships and Grants

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12 Need-Based Programs Florida Student Assistance Grant Programs Public, Private, Postsecondary, and Public Career Education First Generation Matching Grant Program Florida Work Experience Program Rosewood Family Scholarship Program José Martí Scholarship Challenge Grant Fund Mary McLeod Bethune Scholarship Program Florida Education Fund Florida Prepaid College Foundation

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14 Sections ,.505,.51,.52, Florida Statutes State Board of Education Rules 6A ,.032,.033, Florida Administrative Code The Florida Student Assistance Grant (FSAG) Program, created in 1972, is Florida s largest need-based grant program. The FSAG Program consists of four separately funded student financial aid programs (FSAG Public; FSAG Private; FSAG Postsecondary; and FSAG Public Career Education, which was established by the 2007 Florida Legislature) available to degree- and certificate-seeking undergraduate Florida residents who demonstrate substantial financial need and are enrolled in participating postsecondary institutions. All FSAG sectors include additional funding from the College Access Challenge Grant (CACG). The FSAG public, private and postsecondary grants are available to students who attend Florida public state universities, Florida colleges (public community colleges), and eligible private postsecondary institutions. The Florida Public Postsecondary Career Education Student Assistance Grant (FSAG-CE) is available to students who attend participating Florida colleges (public community colleges) or career centers operated by district school boards. The FSAG is administered as a decentralized program, which means that each participating institution determines application deadlines, student eligibility and award amounts. Eligibility criteria and award amounts are regulated by Florida Statutes and the General Appropriations Act. Award Level The FSAG annual award, set in the General Appropriations Act, ranges from a minimum of $200 to a maximum of $2,534, as determined by the institutions based upon their funding allocations and a student s need. The FSAG, in combination with other financial aid, may not exceed the student's demonstrated financial need. Financial need is determined by the institutional cost of attendance, less the Expected Family Contribution as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), and less aid from other sources such as federal grants, state grants and institutional aid (not including loans). Initial Eligibility Requirements An eligible student is required to: Be a United States citizen or eligible non-citizen while meeting Florida s residency requirement for receipt of state student financial aid. A student s citizenship status and residency status are determined by the postsecondary institution. Not owe a repayment under any state or federal grant or scholarship program or be in default on any federal Title IV or state student loan program unless satisfactory arrangements to repay have been made. Not have previously received a bachelor s degree. Meet Florida s general eligibility requirements for receipt of state aid. Enroll for a minimum of: o Six credit hours per term, or the equivalent, in an associate or baccalaureate degree program at Florida public state universities or Florida colleges (public community colleges) to participate in the FSAG Public program. o 180 clock hours per term (or equivalent of 6 semester credits) at an eligible, participating Florida o FLORIDA STUDENT ASSISTANCE GRANT PROGRAMS Cost of Attendance - Expected Family Contribution - Other aid (excluding loans) = Unmet financial need college (public community college) or career center to participate in FSAG-CE. 12 credit hours per term, or the equivalent, in an associate or baccalaureate degree program, at an eligible institution to participate in the FSAG Private or FSAG Postsecondary programs. Demonstrate financial need by completing the FAFSA by the deadline specified by the institution. For FSAG, a Pell Grant entitlement shall be considered when conducting an assessment of the financial 7

15 resources available to each student; however, a Pell Grant entitlement shall not be required as a condition of receiving a grant under this section. FLORIDA STUDENT ASSISTANCE GRANT PROGRAMS NUMBER OF STUDENTS BY SECTOR Year Public Career Education Private Postsecondary Total ,572 3,718 12,106 13, , ,940 3,615 12,832 13, , ,063 3,912 13,517 14, , ,004 3,858 14,582 11, , ,590 3,822 14,360 10, ,458 Year Public Career Education EXPENDITURES BY SECTOR Private Postsecondary Total* Average Award** Max Award $102,000,743 $2,212,723 $16,388,558 $11,310,483 $131,912,507 $1,174 $1, $101,955,047 $2,160,204 $16,416,306 $11,315,977 $131,847,534 $1,126 $2, $105,445,712 $2,265,921 $17,006,966 $11,780,066 $136,498,665 $1,130 $2, $104,444,180 $2,233,646 $16,808,647 $11,545,669 $135,032,142 $1,148 $2, $105,059,923 $2,262,699 $16,890,301 $11,392,130 $135,605,053 $1,116 $2,534 *Total expenditures include federal CACG dollars. **This number represents the full-time equivalent average award. APPROPRIATIONS BY SECTOR Year Public* Career Education* Private* Postsecondary* Total* $ 98,546,590 $2,152,840 $15,875,417 $11,066,226 $127,641, $ 98,546,590 $2,152,840 $15,875,417 $11,066,226 $127,641, $100,350,612 $2,192,251 $16,166,037 $11,268,807 $129,977, $100,404,923 $2,192,251 $16,166,037 $11,268,807 $130,032, $100,404,923 $2,192,251 $16,166,037 $11,268,807 $130,032,018 *Total appropriations do not include federal CACG dollars. 8

16 FIRST GENERATION MATCHING GRANT PROGRAM Section , Florida Statutes The First Generation Matching Grant (FGMG) program, created in 2006, provides need-based grants to degreeseeking undergraduate Florida residents whose parents have not earned baccalaureate degrees. Available state funds are contingent upon matching contributions from private sources on a dollar-for-dollar basis at Florida's 11 state universities and 28 Florida colleges (public community colleges). FGMG is administered as a decentralized program, which means that each participating institution determines application deadlines, student eligibility and award amounts. Eligibility criteria and award amounts are regulated by Florida Statutes and the General Appropriations Act. The 2009 Florida Legislature amended student eligibility criteria. Students are required to meet eligibility criteria for demonstrated need with the same expected family contribution maximum cut-off as found under section , Florida Statutes (F.S.), Florida Public Student Assistance Grant program; eligibility for grants. Award Level Each student s maximum award is based on his/her need assessment, not to exceed the cost of attendance, and is determined by the institution. The average annual award is $1,151. Initial Eligibility Requirements An eligible student is required to: Be a United States citizen or eligible non-citizen while meeting Florida s residency requirement for receipt of state student financial aid. A student s citizenship status and residency status are determined by the postsecondary institution. Not have previously received a bachelor s degree. Meet additional eligibility requirements, as established by the institution. Be a first generation college student. A student is considered "first generation" if neither of the student's parents earned a college degree at the baccalaureate level or higher. A student who regularly resided with and received support from only one parent who did not earn a baccalaureate degree would also be eligible. Be accepted at a Florida public state university or Florida college (public community college). Enroll for a minimum of six credit hours per term as a degree-seeking student. Meet additional eligibility requirements in section , F.S., for demonstrating financial need for the Florida Student Assistant Grant, by submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). FIRST GENERATION MATCHING GRANT PROGRAM Year Students Funded Average Award Expended Funds* Appropriations ,987 $1,452 $15,947,787 $7,997, ,628 $1,422 $13,692,940 $6,848, ,174 $1,292 $13,148,355 $6,574, ,884 $1,258 $11,176,080 $5,588, ,211 $1,151 $10,602,752 $5,308,663 * Expended Funds include a one-to-one match of private donations to state appropriations. 9

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18 FLORIDA WORK EXPERIENCE PROGRAM Section , Florida Statutes State Board of Education Rule 6A , Florida Administrative Code The Florida Work Experience Program (FWEP), created in 1993, is a self-help, need-based student financial assistance program intended to facilitate student employment in occupations complementary to students educational endeavors and career goals. The 2007 Florida Legislature expanded FWEP to serve students at postsecondary institutions by providing more on-campus employment opportunities, helping to keep students in school and reducing students school loans. FWEP is offered at participating colleges, universities, Florida colleges (public community college), career centers operated by district school boards, and educator preparation institutes. FWEP is administered as a decentralized program, and each participating institution determines application deadlines, student eligibility and award amounts. Student and institutional eligibility criteria and appropriations are regulated by Florida Statutes and the General Appropriations Act. Award Level Each student s maximum award is based on his/her level of need, not to exceed the cost of attendance, and is determined by the institution. Institutions may use up to 100 percent of their program allocation for student on-campus employment. Public school employers are funded 100 percent of the students wages, and private employers are funded up to 70 percent of the students wages. Initial Eligibility Requirements An eligible student is required to: Be a United States citizen or eligible non-citizen while meeting Florida s residency requirement for receipt of state student financial aid. A student s citizenship status and residency status are determined by the postsecondary institution. Not owe a repayment under any state or federal grant or scholarship program or be in default on any federal Title IV or state student loan program unless satisfactory arrangements to repay have been made. Not have previously received a baccalaureate degree (unless enrolled in an eligible educator preparation institute). Enroll for a minimum of six credit hours per term (or 180 clock hours) in an associate or baccalaureate degree program at an eligible college or university currently participating in FWEP; enroll no less than halftime in a career certificate program consisting of no less than 450 clock hours of instruction at an eligible career center; or enroll as no less than a half-time student in good standing at an eligible educator preparation institute. Maintain the equivalent of a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale. Demonstrate financial need by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid by the deadline specified by the institution. FLORIDA WORK EXPERIENCE PROGRAM Year Students Funded Average Award Expended Funds* Appropriations $1,848 $1,417,714 $1,569, $1,994 $1,388,047 $1,569, $1,825 $1,406,726 $1,569, $1,768 $1,444,228 $1,569, $1,977 $1,350,611 $1,569,922 *Expenditures do not include administrative fees (up to 10% of allocation amount) as allowed in Florida Statutes. 11

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20 ROSEWOOD FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM Section , Florida Statutes State Board of Education Rule 6A , Florida Administrative Code The Rosewood Family Scholarship Program was created in 1994 to fund direct descendants of Rosewood families affected by the incidents of January This need-based program provides student financial assistance for eligible degree- or certificate-seeking students who attend public state universities, Florida colleges (public community colleges) or public postsecondary career centers. The 2009 Florida Legislature amended student eligibility criteria by allowing awards for only Rosewood descendants, rather than descendants and minorities. Award Level Annual awards are set by Florida Statutes and are based on the cost of matriculation and registration fees at a Florida public postsecondary institution, not to exceed $4,000. Section , F.S., limits the annual number of scholarships to 25. Students awarded are funded for 100 percent tuition and fees, up to $4,000 a year, at their individual public postsecondary institutions. Initial Eligibility Requirements An eligible student is required to: Be a United States citizen or eligible non-citizen. A student s citizenship status is determined by the postsecondary institution. Not owe a repayment under any state or federal grant or scholarship program or be in default on any federal Title IV or state student loan program unless satisfactory arrangements to repay have been made. Not have previously received a bachelor s degree. Meet Florida s general eligibility requirements for receipt of state aid. Enroll full-time at an eligible postsecondary institution in a program of study leading to an undergraduate degree, a certificate or a diploma. Complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid online in time to be processed error-free by the United States Department of Education on or before May 15. Submit a completed Initial Student Florida Financial Aid Application online by April 1. Provide copies of documents of ancestry verifying eligibility as a Rosewood direct descendant to the Office of Student Financial Assistance by April 1. ROSEWOOD FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM Year Students Average Maximum Funded* Award Award Expended Funds Appropriations $2,407 $4,000 $52,949 $60,000** $2,378 $4,000 $52,306 $60, $2,566 $4,000 $51,327 $60, $3,117 $4,000 $59,222 $60, $3,211 $4,000 $64,222*** $60,000 * Unduplicated student head count not all students accept full-year awards. ** Reflects final appropriations after budget reductions. ***Total expended funds include adjusted funds per General Appropriations Act (i.e., Ch , L.O.F.), Line Item

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22 JOSÉ MARTÍ SCHOLARSHIP CHALLENGE GRANT FUND Section , Florida Statutes State Board of Education Rule 6A , Florida Administrative Code The José Martí Scholarship Challenge Grant Fund, created in 1986, assists Florida s Hispanic-American high school graduates with financial need and rewards them for their academic achievement. Applicants are ranked first according to their financial need and then by grade point average. Applicants for undergraduate study must apply during their senior year of high school. Graduate-level students may apply, but priority for the scholarships is given to graduating high school seniors. José Martí is offered at Florida public state universities, Florida colleges (public community colleges) and eligible accredited private postsecondary institutions. The number of new awards made each year is subject to contributions from private sources and funds appropriated by the Florida Legislature. Award Level The annual award, set by Florida Statutes, is $2,000. Scholarships are funded by private and state contributions matching 1:1. Initial Eligibility Requirements An eligible student is required to: Be a United States citizen or eligible non-citizen while meeting Florida s residency requirement for receipt of state student financial aid. A student s citizenship status and residency status are determined by the postsecondary institution. Not owe a repayment under any state or federal grant or scholarship program or be in default on any federal Title IV or state student loan program unless satisfactory arrangements to repay have been made. Meet Florida s general eligibility requirements for receipt of state aid. Enroll as a degree-seeking student at an eligible postsecondary institution and enroll each academic term for a minimum of 12 credit hours for undergraduate study or nine credit hours for graduate study. Demonstrate sufficient financial need to receive a full $2,000 scholarship by completing and submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid in time to be processed error-free by the United States Department of Education on or before May 15. Submit a completed Initial Student Florida Financial Aid Application during the last year of high school or, for graduate study, by April 1 prior to the year of graduate study. Be of Spanish culture, born in or having a natural parent who was born in Mexico, a Hispanic country of the Caribbean, or Central or South America, regardless of race. For initial eligibility, have earned, by the end of the seventh semester, a minimum unweighted cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale in high school for an undergraduate scholarship, or a 3.0 institutional cumulative GPA for undergraduate college work if applying for a graduate-level scholarship. JOSÉ MARTÍ SCHOLARSHIP CHALLENGE GRANT FUND Year Students Maximum Average Award Funded Award Expended Funds Appropriations $1,880 $2,000 $94,000 $170,939* $1,935 $2,000 $89,000 $160, $1,947 $2,000 $74,000 $ 96, $1,973 $2,000 $73,000 $ 82, $1,940 $2,000 $75,667 $ 99,000 * Reflects final appropriations after budget reductions. 15

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24 MARY MCLEOD BETHUNE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM Section , Florida Statutes State Board of Education Rule 6A , Florida Administrative Code The Mary McLeod Bethune Scholarship Program, created in 1989, provides financial assistance to undergraduate students who meet specific scholastic requirements and demonstrate financial need. Students must attend one of Florida s four historically black colleges and universities: Bethune-Cookman University, Edward Waters College, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University or Florida Memorial University. The program is administered as a decentralized program, which means that each participating institution determines application deadlines, student eligibility and award amounts. Available funds are contingent upon matching contributions from private sources on behalf of eligible institutions. The number of new awards made each year is subject to institutional contributions from private sources and funds appropriated by the Florida Legislature. Award Level Annual awards of $3,000 as set by Florida Statutes consist of the state 1:1 match. Participating institutions may choose to prorate awards in order to accommodate all eligible students. Initial Eligibility Requirements An eligible student is required to: Be a United States citizen or eligible non-citizen while meeting Florida s residency requirement for receipt of state student financial aid. A student s citizenship status and residency status are determined by the postsecondary institution. Not owe a repayment under any state or federal grant or scholarship program or be in default on any federal Title IV or state student loan program unless satisfactory arrangements to repay have been made. Not have previously received a bachelor s degree. Meet Florida s general eligibility requirements for receipt of state aid. Enroll at Bethune-Cookman University, Edward Waters College, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University or Florida Memorial University as a degree-seeking undergraduate student for a minimum of 12 credit hours per term. Demonstrate financial need by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid by the deadline specified by the institution. Apply through financial aid offices at one of the four participating institutions where the student plans to attend. Have earned a minimum unweighted cumulative grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, or the equivalent, for high school subjects credited toward a diploma. MARY MCLEOD BETHUNE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM Year Students Maximum Average Award Funded Award Expended Funds Appropriations $2,751 $3,000 $663,000 $664, $2,573 $3,000 $597,000 $598, $2,587 $3,000 $582,000 $583, $2,420 $3,000 $288,000 $290, $2,326 $3,000 $321,000 $321,674 17

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26 FLORIDA EDUCATION FUND Section , Florida Statutes The Florida Education Fund (FEF), established in 1984, was appropriated $2,000,000 for through the Florida Department of Education, Office of Student Financial Assistance. The 2012 Legislature amended the FEF, requiring a state match of 1:1. The amendment also required certification of donations to the Legislature prior to disbursement of state appropriations. The Florida Education Fund is a not-for-profit statutory corporation whose mission is to strengthen the larger community by creating and implementing programs and services that lead to institutional enhancements and greater advancement for historically under-represented groups. The impact of these programs has been demonstrated across various educational levels through two highly acclaimed programs: McKnight Doctoral Fellowship - Established in 1984, the McKnight Doctoral Fellowship Program has increased the number of African-Americans and Hispanics awarded the Ph.D., particularly in the arts and sciences, mathematics, business and engineering - disciplines in which minorities have historically been under-represented. With 824 fellowships awarded since 1984, 378 graduates, and 278 current matriculants, the program enjoys an impressive 80 percent retention rate. The 378 fellows who have earned Ph.D. degrees completed their programs, on average, in five years and six months. The program continues to fund up to 50 fellowships each year for students pursuing a doctoral degree at one of the nine participating institutions in Florida, which are Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University, Florida Atlantic University, Florida Institute of Technology, Florida International University, Florida State University, University of Central Florida, University of Florida, University of Miami and University of South Florida. Each fellowship consists of $17,000 per year in tuition, fees and stipend. All application materials must be submitted online or postmarked by January 15 of each year. Centers of Excellence - Established in 1985, the Centers of Excellence are community-based initiatives that identify and motivate disadvantaged elementary and secondary students. The centers' mission includes: a) assuming a more proactive stance in the education of youth; b) employing the development of a group achievement model for disadvantaged elementary and secondary students; and c) increasing the pool of students who are prepared, motivated and qualified to enter higher education. Ten centers operate throughout the State of Florida and each subscribes to individual and group motivation, academic skill development, cultural enrichment, career awareness and increased exposure to higher education. The following represent programs established by the FEF: Academic Enrichment Centers - Developed in communities to supplement student learning experiences through tutoring and standardized test preparation. National Achievers Society - Designed to identify and acknowledge high-achieving, disadvantaged students. The Brain Bowl - Designed to improve academic skills outside traditional classrooms through local and statewide competitions in mathematics, history and culture, word definition, and writing. More than 16,754 students have participated as team members in the Annual Brain Bowl Competition. African-American Churches - Intended to encourage and promote the church as an integral and primary resource in a significant portion of center activities. 19

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28 FLORIDA PREPAID COLLEGE FOUNDATION Section , Florida Statutes The Florida Prepaid College Foundation was created in 1989 as the direct support organization of the Florida Prepaid College Board. Since inception, the foundation has presented approximately 33,400 scholarships, of which more than 25,600 have been assigned through Project STARS (Scholarship Tuition for At-Risk Students). In addition, over 7,750 scholarships have been purchased for other programs, including the Fallen Soldier Scholarship program, the annual Black History Month Scholarship program, the annual Hispanic Heritage Scholarship program, the annual Governor s Recognition Scholarship program, the Work and Gain Economic Self-Sufficiency Scholarship initiative and the Florida Department of Education 67 School Districts Scholarship program. The foundation provides businesses, community groups and individuals the opportunity to fund taxdeductible college scholarships for Florida children. The donor may select the student and establish the scholarship criteria, subject to foundation approval. The 2012 Florida Legislature appropriated $7,000,000 to the Florida Prepaid College Foundation for , which was received by the Florida Department of Education, Office of Student Financial Assistance, and provided to the foundation for administration. Pledges received from donors for STARS and for other programs totaled $9.1 million. To fund these scholarships, the foundation receives an annual appropriation from the Florida Legislature and funding from community partners including other foundations, school districts, businesses, organizations and individuals. The foundation may provide matching funds or the partner may underwrite the entire scholarship. Contributions to the foundation may be tax-deductible. The Stanley Tate Project STARS Scholarship program, the foundation s most notable project, is a program for children from low-income families who are at risk of dropping out of school. Many of these children are the first in their families to have the opportunity to attend college. Students must maintain satisfactory academic progress and remain drug- and crime-free to receive a prepaid scholarship upon high school graduation. Over 83 percent of all participating students meet the Stanley Tate Project STARS Scholarship program requirements and plan to go to college. Only 38 percent of the beneficiaries are from two-parent homes. Fifty-five percent are minority students (32 percent are African-American, 17 percent are Hispanic, 3 percent are Asian/Pacific, and 3 percent are other nationalities). During the academic year, 31 percent of the students who received funding were male and 69 percent were female. The scholarships listed in the chart below are defined as follows: Match a STARS scholarship that is funded 50 percent by the Florida Prepaid College Foundation and 50 percent by a private entity Private a scholarship that is funded 100 percent by a private entity Special Supplemental Scholarship a scholarship that is funded 100 percent by the Florida Prepaid College Foundation SCHOLARSHIPS PURCHASED Year Match Private Special Supplemental Scholarships Total Scholarships Purchased , , , , , , , ,342* ,390 *Of this amount, 1,116 scholarships used a portion of the allocation and an additional 226 scholarships used other funds, including reinvested scholarships, from previous years. 21

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30 Merit-Based Programs Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program

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32 FLORIDA BRIGHT FUTURES SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM Sections , Florida Statutes State Board of Education Rule 6A , Florida Administrative Code The Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program, created in 1997 and funded by the Florida Lottery, is a merit-based program that rewards Florida high school students for their high academic achievement and encourages them to continue their postsecondary education at eligible Florida institutions. Eligible participating institutions include Florida public state universities, Florida colleges (public community colleges), public career centers and eligible private postsecondary institutions. The Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program consists of three award categories: Florida Academic Scholars (FAS) award, Florida Medallion Scholars (FMS) award, and Florida Gold Seal Vocational Scholars (GSV) award. A select number of FAS students who ranked highest in their districts will receive an additional Academic Top Scholars (ATS) award each year they maintain their FAS eligibility. The Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program was amended during the 2012 Florida legislative session. These changes became effective July 1, Amendments included: Limited awards to no more than two terms in any fiscal year for Bright Futures awardees enrolled in the University of Florida Innovation Academy spring/summer pilot program. Decreased the time from three years to two years from high school graduation to receive an initial Bright Futures award. Clarified that Bright Futures initial and renewal recipients are required to file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Limited Gold Seal Vocational Scholars awards began with the high school graduation class. Students may use up to 60 hours in an applied technology diploma program, up to 72 hours in a technology degree education program (AS or AAS), or up to 72 hours in a career certificate program. Authorized the department to evaluate students who graduate from high school in the middle of the academic year for a Florida Bright Futures Scholarship and provide for disbursement in the same academic year. Award Level All FAS, FMS, and GSV students received the specified (cost per credit hour) award amounts established by the Florida Legislature in the 2013 General Appropriations Act. See page 28 of this annual report. Initial Eligibility Requirements An eligible student is required to: Be a United States citizen or eligible non-citizen while meeting Florida s residency requirement for receipt of state student financial aid. A student s citizenship status and residency status are determined by the postsecondary institution. Not owe a repayment under any state or federal grant or scholarship program or be in default on any federal Title IV or state student loan program unless satisfactory arrangements to repay have been made. Not have previously received a bachelor s degree. Meet Florida s general eligibility requirements for receipt of state aid. Meet Bright Futures academic requirements for initial eligibility for at least one of the three awards. Enroll in at least six semester credit hours, or the equivalent, in an undergraduate degree or certificate program at an eligible Florida public or FDOE-registered private postsecondary educational institution. Submit a completed Initial Student Florida Financial Aid Application during the student s last year of high school (after December 1 and prior to graduation). Not have been found guilty of, or entered a plea of nolo contendere to, a felony charge, unless the student has been granted clemency by the Governor and Cabinet sitting as the Executive Office of Clemency. Earn a standard Florida high school diploma or its equivalent. See the Bright Futures website at for information regarding students completing a home education program, students earning a diploma via the GED exam or students who are dependents of persons on military or public service assignment outside of Florida. Receive the first disbursement within two years of high school graduation, or apply for reinstatement and receive funding within two years of graduation. Students in the military may view the website at for information regarding reinstatement procedures. 25

33 ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES Florida Academic Scholars Award Florida Medallion Scholars Award Florida Gold Seal Vocational Scholars Award (FAS) (FMS) (GSV) Standard Florida high school diploma with: Standard Florida high school diploma with: Standard Florida high school diploma with: 3.5 weighted GPA using the credits listed below combined with the test scores and community service hours listed below (Note: GPAs are not rounded.) Courses must include 16 credits of college preparatory academic courses. 4 English (3 with substantial writing) 4 Mathematics (Algebra I and above) 3 Natural Science (2 with substantial lab) 3 Social Science 2 World Language* (sequential, in the same language) 16 Credits May use up to 2 additional optional credits from courses in the academic areas listed above and/or AP, IB, or AICE fine arts courses to raise the GPA if necessary *For details on the World Language requirements, visit the Bright Futures website at D/bf/ and, under First-Time Applicants, select Florida Academic Scholars. 3.0 weighted GPA using the credits listed below combined with the test scores and community service hours listed below (Note: GPAs are not rounded.) Courses must include 16 credits of college preparatory academic courses. 4 English (3 with substantial writing) 4 Mathematics (Algebra I and above) 3 Natural Science (2 with substantial lab) 3 Social Science 2 World Language* (sequential, in the same language) 16 Credits May use up to 2 additional optional credits from courses in the academic areas listed above and/or AP, IB, or AICE fine arts courses to raise the GPA if necessary *For details on the World Language requirements, visit the Bright Futures website at AD/bf/ and, under First-Time Applicants, select Florida Medallion Scholars. 3.0 weighted GPA using the 16 core credits listed below for a 4-year diploma, and a 3.5 unweighted GPA in a minimum of 3 Career and Technical Education credits in one vocational program, combined with the test scores and community service hours listed below (See Other Ways to Qualify for 3-year graduation options) (Note: GPAs are not rounded.) 4-year Diploma ** Credits must include 16 core credits required for high school graduation. 4 English 4 Mathematics (including Algebra I) 3 Natural Science (2 with substantial lab) 3 Social Science (U.S. Hist., World Hist., U.S. Govt., and Economics) 1 Fine OR identified Practical Art OR 0.5 credit in each 1 Physical Education (to include integration of Health) 16 Credits Plus a minimum of 3 Career and Technical Education credits in one vocational program (See Other Ways to Qualify for 3-year graduation options) 100 hours of community service as approved by the district or private school Best composite score of 1280 SAT Reasoning Test (based on the combined Critical Reading and Math sections only) or Best composite score of 28 ACT (excluding the writing section) NOTE: The writing sections for both the SAT and ACT will not be used in the composite. SAT Subject Tests are not used for Bright Futures eligibility. (ACT scores are rounded up for scores with 0.5 and higher; SAT scores do not require rounding.) 75 hours of community service as approved by the district or private school Best composite score of 1020 SAT Reasoning Test (based on the combined Critical Reading and Math sections only) or Best composite score of 22 ACT (excluding the writing section) NOTE: The writing sections for both the SAT and ACT will not be used in the composite. SAT Subject Tests are not used for Bright Futures eligibility. (ACT scores are rounded up for scores with 0.5 and higher; SAT scores do not require rounding.) 30 hours of community service as approved by the district or private school Students must earn the minimum score on each section of the SAT, or ACT or Florida Postsecondary Education Readiness Test (PERT). Sections of different test types may not be combined. SAT Reasoning Test: Critical Reading 440 Math 440 or ACT: English 17 Reading 18 Math 19 or PERT: Reading 104 Writing 99 Math

34 OTHER WAYS TO QUALIFY FOR A BRIGHT FUTURES SCHOLARSHIP HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES Florida Academic Scholars Award (FAS) The other ways to qualify listed below must also include the community service hours requirement. National Merit or Achievement Scholars and Finalists National Hispanic Scholars IB Diploma Recipients (based on exams taken prior to high school graduation) Students who have completed the IB Curriculum with best composite score of 1280 SAT or 28 ACT AICE Diploma Recipients (based on exams taken prior to and during the high school graduation exam administration series ending mid- June) Students who have completed the AICE Curriculum with best composite score of 1280 SAT or 28 ACT Students who have attended a home education program according to s , F.S., registered with the district during grades 11 and 12, and have a best composite score of 1280 SAT or 28 ACT GED with best composite score of 1280 SAT or 28 ACT and a 3.5 weighted GPA in the above 16 required credits 3-year standard college preparatory program with best composite score of 1280 SAT or 28 ACT and a 3.5 weighted GPA in the 16 required credits Florida Medallion Scholars Award (FMS) The other ways to qualify listed below must also include the community service hours requirement. National Merit or Achievement Scholars and Finalists National Hispanic Scholars IB Diploma Recipients (based on exams taken prior to high school graduation Students who have completed the IB Curriculum with best composite score of 1020 SAT or 22 ACT AICE Diploma Recipients (based on exams taken prior to and during the high school graduation exam administration series ending mid-june) Students who have completed the AICE Curriculum with best composite score of 1020 SAT or 22 ACT Students who have attended a home education program according to s , F.S., registered with the district during grades 11 and 12, and Have a best combined score of 1070 SAT or 23 ACT OR Have a combined score of 1020 SAT or 22 ACT with a weighted 3.0 GPA in the above 16 required credits (documented through Florida public, FDOE-registered private, FLVS, or dual enrollment transcripts) GED with best composite score of 1020 SAT or 22 ACT and a 3.0 weighted GPA in the above 16 required credits 3-year standard college preparatory program with best composite score of 1020 SAT or 22 ACT and a 3.0 weighted GPA in the 16 required credits Florida Gold Seal Vocational Scholars Award (GSV) The other ways to qualify listed below must also include a 3.5 unweighted GPA in a minimum of 3 Career and Technical Education credits in one vocational program, minimum test scores listed on the previous page, and the community service hours requirement. 3-year Career Preparatory diploma** with 3.0 weighted GPA using the 14 core credits required for graduation listed below 4 English (3 with substantial writing) 4 Mathematics (including Algebra I) 3 Natural Science (2 with substantial lab) 3 Social Science (U.S. Hist., World Hist., U.S. Govt., and Economics) 14 Credits 3-year College Preparatory diploma** with 3.0 weighted GPA using the 16 core credits required for graduation listed below 4 English (3 with substantial writing) 4 Mathematics (Algebra I and above) 3 Natural Science (2 with substantial lab) 3 Social Science (U.S. Hist., World Hist., U.S. Govt., and Economics) 2 World Language* (sequential, in same language) 16 Credits *For details on the World Language requirements, visit the Bright Futures website at SFAD/bf/. Under First-Time Applicants, select Florida Gold Seal Vocational Scholars and then select World Language Requirements from the Site Index. GED with 3.0 weighted GPA using the core credits required for your selected high school graduation option (standard, career, or college) **Note: For other diploma options established by legislative sessions, visit 27